The Egyptian authorities have decided to extend the free transit visa programme. The programme for free visas on arrival at Luxor and Aswan airports has also been extended. The government wants to encourage more travellers to visit southern Egypt.
Free transit visa for Egypt
International travellers flying with an Egyptian airline and transferring to another flight in Cairo, Luxor or Aswan can obtain a free transit visa at the airport. Travellers can thus leave the airport for up to 96 hours to visit the country for a short time. According to the Egyptian government, the programme will continue until April 2027.
Free emergency visa extended
In 2026 and 2027, travellers will also be able to benefit from a free emergency visa at Luxor and Aswan airports. The free visa will only be available during the low season (May to October). This visa is intended for travellers who are travelling to Egypt at short notice and haven't been able to apply for an e-visa. In this way, the Egyptian government wants to encourage more tourists to visit the southern part of the country.
Flexible visa policy to encourage tourism
In recent years, the Egyptian government has implemented a series of measures to simplify the visa policiy as much as possible for tourists. By implementing simple and stress-free procedures, Egypt hopes to be perceived as a an attractive holiday destination. The ultimate goal for the authorities is to stimulate the country's economy.
The strategy seems to work, given the rising number of tourists in Egypt. In 2025, the country welcomed a record number of tourists. According to estimates, nearly 19 million people visited Egypt.
Applying for an e-visa for Egypt
Despite the various programmes and free visas offered by the Egyptian government, the e-visa is still the best option for a holiday in Egypt. With an e-visa, you know that you will be allowed to enter the country. Furthermore, you will not have to queue for a visa on arrival and will be able to go straight to your hotel.
At e-Visa.co.uk , you can submit your application entirely in English. After completing a short application form, you will need to upload a passport scan. Once your application has been submitted, your e-visa will be approved within 11 days. If you are travelling at short notice, you can submit an urgent application. Urgent applications are usually approved within5 days.
There are two types of visa available. The e-visa for a single arrival in Egypt is valid for 90 days. This allows you to stay in the country for 30 consecutive days. There is also another e-visa, which is valid for 180 days for multiple trips to Egypt. Each stay may last up to 30 consecutive days. You can use the e-visa for a holiday or to visit friends or family in Egypt.